Simple procedures not followed to protect soldiers from cold injuries
October 01, 2010
Posted by:Alison Hinder
Now that summer is over and the winter weather is fast approaching, we expect to see an increase in the number of military compensation claims for cold injuries to the hands and feet. Cold injuries should not be taken lightly, and often lead to a loss of sensation, severe pain and personnel being medically discharged. The dangers of military equipment shortages have been widely publicised by the media. However, cold weather equipment, including thermal gloves and boots, is widely available. Sadly, simple procedures are often not followed, such as medical inspections being missed on exercise. The risks of cold injuries are also not taken seriously, leading to military personnel being refused permission to wear their cold weather kit and going on to suffer with entirely preventable injuries.